But that’s why it is valuable. Most people won’t do it. They give phone calls or Skype meetings the same weight as in-person meetings.

In a world of abundant technology, people genuinely appreciate back-to-basic approaches — like looking your customer in the eye and shaking her hand.

This principle also applies to partners, colleagues, and friends.

There’s nothing that creates long-lasting relationships like being in the room when your partner, colleague, or friend is working through a problem. When you’re in the room, their problem becomes your problem. Shared problem solving, between people, leads to trust and respect — feelings that endure.

There are of course 10,000 blog posts about how to grow your digital network. Those lessons are important.

But if you are looking to grow a differentiated network over time, start by being in the room.